Property Tax Reform In 2017 – Is It Possible?

Property tax reform has been on the minds of Texas property owners for years and this year is no exception. In fact, a special session of the Texas Legislature is scheduled to begin on July 18, 2017 and property tax is one of the items on their agenda.

The expectations for property tax reform prior to the 2017 legislative session were the highest since the year 2000. That was the last time meaningful property tax legislation was passed as a package.

There were four major objectives:
1) to slow the growth of property taxes
2) to implement changes to effect impartial appraisal review board hearings
3) to provide property owners easier access to information
4) to provide more oversight of appraisal districts

However, due to a seemingly intractable dispute between the house and the senate, most of the proposed legislation was not passed. A list of exemptions that did pass in their last session include the following:

1) Total homestead exemption from property taxes for the spouse of a first responder killed in the line of duty.

2) A one-year extension for the deadline to file a homestead exemption. For example, a homeowner who bought their house in 2014 can file a homestead exemption by January 31, 2018 and get a homestead exemption for 2015, 2016 and 2017. Refunds of property taxes for prior years will be sent to the homeowners.

3) The deadline for filing was extended by four years for persons with permanent disability.

4) The chief appraiser can correct an error made in denying homestead exemption for those homeowners over 65 or for those who are disabled.

5) The freeport exemption filing deadline was extended until June 15.

6) The maximum property value for binding arbitration was increased from $3 million to $5 million for property that is not a homestead.

7) The Texas Comptroller can remove an arbitrator who is biased based on clear and convincing evidence of repeated bias or misconduct.

Positive property tax reform for Texas property owners is possible and you can bring about change. Texans that want to make their voice heard should contact their representative. If you would like to know who to contact, here is a link to look up your representative by county.

Comments

Cleburne Property Tax Relief Specialists | O’Connor

Rising property taxes in Cleburne can put a significant financial strain on homeowners, but O’Connor & Associates provides an effective and proven solution. As the nation’s largest property tax consulting firm, O’Connor leverages decades of experience and deep market knowledge to help property owners secure meaningful tax reductions. Their experts carefully analyze appraisal data, identify errors or overvaluations, and file strong protests on your behalf, ensuring that you never pay more than your fair share. What makes their service even more valuable is the risk-free structure—you pay nothing unless your property taxes are successfully reduced. This client-focused approach has helped thousands of Texans save millions of dollars, and Cleburne homeowners can now take advantage of the same expertise. With a streamlined enrollment process and a history of proven results, O’Connor is the trusted partner for lowering property tax bills in Cleburne.Take the first step toward lower...

Cook County Residential Property Tax Reduction Made Simple

Managing Cook County Illinois real estate taxes can be overwhelming, especially with rising assessments that often feel inaccurate or unfair. Fortunately, O’Connor offers a specialized service to help homeowners file a Cook County property tax appeal with confidence. Their proven strategy combines in-depth market analysis, property valuation reviews, and knowledge of local tax laws to identify opportunities for meaningful savings. Even if you have never filed before, O’Connor makes the process straightforward—handling research, paperwork, and negotiations on your behalf. This not only saves you time but also maximizes your chance of success. Whether your concern is affordability, fairness, or simply reducing unnecessary expenses, initiating a Cook County property tax protest with O’Connor ensures you have experts in your corner fighting for the lowest lawful tax burden.Take the first step toward lowering your property taxes today—visit https://www.poconnor.com/illinois/cook-count...

Hays County Property Tax Reduction Experts | O’Connor

Property taxes in Hays County continue to rise, placing a heavy financial strain on homeowners and businesses alike. O’Connor & Associates offers a proven solution through their comprehensive Property Tax Protection Program™, designed to maximize savings while minimizing hassle. Their experienced team carefully reviews property assessments, identifies errors, and aggressively pursues appeals to ensure fair and accurate taxation. With decades of expertise and the nation’s largest property tax consulting firm behind them, clients benefit from unmatched resources and success rates. Best of all, their risk-free model means you pay nothing unless they win a reduction, making it a safe and effective way to secure real savings. Whether you own a single-family home, commercial property, or investment real estate, O’Connor provides the knowledge and advocacy needed to protect your bottom line in Hays County.Take control of your property taxes today: https://www.poconnor.com/hays-count...

poconnor

Search This Blog